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Description

BMW E46 Engine Crossmember Reinforcement Front, Weld-in Set

This E46 engine crossmember reinforcement is a weld-in kit for the front engine crossmember of the BMW E46. That crossmember carries the engine via the engine mounts and is also the mounting point for the front suspension. On an E46 with more power, an engine swap or lots of circuit kilometres, it is a spot where the steel can crack over time.

With these plates you repair a crossmember that is already damaged, or you make an intact crossmember stronger before things go wrong. A logical step for anyone who is seriously building an E46 for drifting or the track.

Key benefits of the E46 engine crossmember reinforcement

• Repairs a damaged or cracked engine crossmember
• Can be used preventively on a crossmember that is still intact
• Sheet metal of 3 mm S355 steel, a strong structural steel grade
• Laser-cut and shaped on CNC press brakes
• Specially for the BMW E46
• Light: 0.28 kg

Suitable for

BMW 3 Series E46

• BMW 3 Series E46

Technical specifications

• Item number: 0070
• Application: repair and reinforcement of the front engine crossmember
• Material: S355 steel
• Plate thickness: 3 mm
• Processing: laser-cut, bent on CNC press brakes
• Fitting: weld in
• Weight: 0.28 kg

Installation and delivery

The E46 engine crossmember reinforcement is welded onto the crossmember. According to the manufacturer, this is best done before the crossmember goes into the car. With the crossmember on the workbench, you can weld all the way round and check the seams properly.

Preparation is half the job: remove paint, rust and sealant down to bare steel, and inspect the crossmember for hairline cracks around the mounting points. Weld those shut first and then fit the plates. After welding, protect everything with a good primer and a top coat, so that no rust creeps under the plates.

With the crossmember out, plan the other work at the front at the same time. Think of new engine mounts, the control arm bushes and a check of the steering rack. That way you only have to take the front apart once and everything is tight again.

Have this work done by an experienced welder. The engine crossmember is a load-bearing part of the car, so a neat and complete weld is important.

You will find all reinforcements for the body and subframes in our chassis and subframe reinforcements category. If you are tackling the whole front end, also take a look at the sump guard with X-brace for the E46.

A strong engine crossmember is the foundation for everything you change at the front of the E46.

Why choose this E46 engine crossmember reinforcement?

In the drift world, the E46 is increasingly being given a heavier or more powerful engine. The original front crossmember is not designed for that, and the steel can then start to crack around the mounting points. These bent plates made of 3 mm S355 steel strengthen the crossmember for a fraction of the cost and effort of a replacement crossmember.

Frequently asked questions

Does the reinforcement have to be welded?

Yes, the plates of the E46 engine crossmember reinforcement are welded onto the crossmember.

Can I leave the crossmember in the car?

That is not recommended. The manufacturer advises welding in the plates before the crossmember is fitted in the car.

Does this set also fit the E36?

No, this E46 engine crossmember reinforcement is only for the E46. We have a separate set for the E36.

Does a road-going E46 also benefit from this?

Yes. On a road car with high mileage or a heavier engine, the crossmember is also heavily loaded around the mounting points.

How thick is the steel?

3 mm, in S355 grade.

Does the reinforcement also help with an existing crack?

Yes, the E46 engine crossmember reinforcement is intended to repair damage and to prevent new damage. Do weld the crack shut first.

Delivery outside the European Union: different shipping costs may apply. Don’t worry: we will email you as soon as possible after your order and agree the shipping with you. You are not committed to anything without your consent.